Discontinued Thermovape Cera

[Quetzalcoatl]

I don't think the design is suited to a latching power switch no matter where they put it. Ultimately TET came to the same conclusion because that's exactly why they canned it. The design requires constant power and so is vulnerable to being left on. If it used pulse power, the latching switch would not be an issue because it would simply enable/disable the momentary power on button.

A manual switch like what OF made would be awesome though. Shape a washer, add the lever, and it would work rather well. OF's got the idea down 100%, but something aesthetic along the lines of Cera's look would be nice. This probably won't come out of TV's place though, perhaps Pipes is up to the challenge?

 

[Egzoset]

Salutations Pipes,
Salutations IAmN3ko,

I was thinking they should treat it like a Sauna or Hot tub and use a mechanical timer.

JWill posted about the same idea (yesterday) and i begin to like it even better than any timer concept because then the excess heat problem would finally get fixed thanks to an active control loop - but the oven happens to be located on top with its power-switch on the opposite side, while there's a battery in between!... A "T" or "L" shaped battery holder would make it possible to displace the battery cavity so that the oven and switch can interact directly i suppose, etc.

Imagine a TV Cera-LL profiled like a hammer where the handle would host a battery, away from the oven/thermostat assembly, euh... Because, that's what this idea would mean after all, right?

...why not just make the side a momentary switch, and keep the bottom either a latching switch or have no bottom switch at all...

Having no proper understanding of the safety swtich (under the oven) i must point out that i had the same reaction since despite previous attempts i've never managed to get a clear picture of it - but based on the recent developments lets just take for granted that heating can't be allowed to go on indefinitely anyway: that switch would need to return the "OFF" state reliably once released.

ADDENDUM: ...or when too hot, of course...

...another smaller pin though the pin?

Does that safety pin establish or brake electric contact? If it's needed to operate then i'd infer it's acting as a conductive bridge so i sort of wonder if it wouldn't be possible to turn it into some over-heating protection fusible, rendering latching options acceptable to a lawyer again... I guess.

 

[Pipes]

This probably won't come out of TV's place though, perhaps Pipes is up to the challenge?

I think if not offered by TET, there will be a good reason for it. For that reason it appear's Cera users will have to fend for themselves. Since I do not have a Cera it makes it hard to find an off the shelf fit.
However, in doing a google search for "latch button switch 19mm" and looking at images only, it seems lots of possibilities.

 

[ShipDit]

Seems like there could be a market for such a switch,I hope the aftermarket is paying attention. Maybe Pipes,Of and some of the other electronic wizards around here could design a prototype,acquire manufacturing facilities and the machinery to produce the first (of many I'm sure) custom hot-rod parts for Cera. Shouldnt take them more than a week at most. I mean how hard could it be?

 

[pakalolo]

I do feel TET needs to address us about what is going on with the latching switches. Don't really feel that blog post does any justice in doing so.

TET does not need to address you or anyone else. They've made a decision, stated their reason, and if you get anything else it's out of their open and generous nature, which I hasten to add has bitten them in the ass several times because it caters to the inflated sense of entitlement of the howling mob in this and the other two threads.

 

[7upstar]

TET does not need to address you or anyone else. They've made a decision, stated their reason, and if you get anything else it's out of their open and generous nature, which I hasten to add has bitten them in the ass several times because it caters to the inflated sense of entitlement of the howling mob in this and the other two threads.

I agree

 

[iamn3ko]

I too was thinking of a timer on the switch.

My idea was you could press it in, it would stay in idk 10 sec? Minimizing the times/ time you have to press it down. Then would pop out. And reclick...

Now I understand it may be a little unrealistic as for 10 sec, as some people may take smaller hits, and 10 sec might be too short for LL users. So maybe something that pops out after another click to turn it off if 10 sec is too long...

Sounds like too much for a switch, but just another idea.


BUT I do like the idea of the flat side switch (the redesigned OF latching mod), would make it look like a handle bar and a clutch or something, put that Cera to 'Full Throttle'

Brrraaappp!!

 

[HazyDaze]

Seems like there could be a market for such a switch,I hope the aftermarket is paying attention. Maybe Pipes,Of and some of the other electronic wizards around here could design a prototype,acquire manufacturing facilities and the machinery to produce the first (of many I'm sure) custom hot-rod parts for Cera. Shouldnt take them more than a week at most. I mean how hard could it be?

That is a valid point. While there are individuals who relish the fact that they can modify their Cera (me!) there are also people who see this as a massive hindrance. Not everyone has the technical ability or means to do so, keep in mind that I'm only discussing the loose-leaf cart here as it would benefit the most from having a latching switch.
Many people are after something that will work straight out of the box, without having to tinker with it too much, which was one of the main selling points of the Cera. And in that regard some might feel that the LL might fall short in terms of as being "user friendly" as they would like. Which in the end might end up hurting sales which is unfortunate as I've always seen TET as great innovators.

 

[Quetzalcoatl]

BUT I do like the idea of the flat side switch (the redesigned OF latching mod), would make it look like a handle bar and a clutch or something, put that Cera to 'Full Throttle'

I think it would be like the latch of a grenade, but when it's engaged it sits flush with the body of the Cera. A grenade without the pin if you will

 

[ShipDit]

That is a valid point. While there are individuals who relish the fact that they can modify their Cera (me!) there are also people who see this as a massive hindrance. Not everyone has the technical ability or means to do so, keep in mind that I'm only discussing the loose-leaf cart here as it would benefit the most from having a latching switch.
Many people are after something that will work straight out of the box, without having to tinker with it too much, which was one of the main selling points of the Cera. And in that regard some might feel that the LL might fall short in terms of as being "user friendly" as they would like. Which in the end might end up hurting sales which is unfortunate as I've always seen TET as great innovators.

I hear ya man,stuff like this is waaay beyond my skill level. Since the beginning I've been hoping that third-party companies would be making custom/hot rod parts for Cera. The way the platform is designed with standardized parts,and the fact it's not going to change for years just begs for aftermarket parts. Something you don't like? Need to modify something so you can operate it easily? Just want something a little different from the herd? Some of us just don't have the skill to do it ourselves so it would be nice to be able to just buy what we want/need. I come from an automotive background and can atest to the fact that the aftermarket for cars is a multi-billion business. Maybe I'm wrong,but the Cera just seems designed to be customized. There's potential here,if you have the vision and skills,to make some good money and help folks get their Cera just the way they want.
Maybe I'm just talking out my ass here since I don't have the knowledge or skill to pull it off,but damn it would be sweet if someone could. Come to think of it,never mind. I'm just to lazy to do my own mods and would rather just write a check to get what I want.

 

[Pipes]

Let us not forget the silicone sleeve might come in useful for ideas to hold the switch in too.

 

[OF]

This is fun, here is now I use mine for now, latching baby. I also enjoy the reduced size/weight.

All that's required to complete the connection is something conductive and appropriately sized.

Do I understand you right, you removed the end cap to save length (nearly an inch) and weight (two ounces) replacing it with a handy cap and some foil?

Brilliant! That's a major improvement in OAL and heft.......

Very cool.

Are you serious OF. After you come up with the perfect fix you are not going to explore it?

Oh, I doubt I'm all that serious at any given point really, but I don't follow your question, Lady. I'm not so sure I understand the "explore it" part?

I won't argue the perfect part if you insist, but can you try the question again, please? Maybe smaller words?

TIA

Seems like there could be a market for such a switch,I hope the aftermarket is paying attention. Maybe Pipes,Of and some of the other electronic wizards around here could design a prototype,acquire manufacturing facilities and the machinery to produce the first (of many I'm sure) custom hot-rod parts for Cera. Shouldnt take them more than a week at most. I mean how hard could it be?

Never looked at it that way.....what could go wrong?

FWIW I'm starting to get a little jazzed on the idea of cottage industry mods, making Cera our vape in a way, not just something you buy off the shelf and use as instructed......if there were instructions of course.

....which I hasten to add has bitten them in the ass several times because it caters to the inflated sense of entitlement of the howling mob in this and the other two threads.

"it caters to the inflated sense of entitlement of the howling mob"? Damn, Pak you sure know your way around a keyboard. You channeling Winnie or something? That goes along with your Pax taste rating from the FV thread and something equally profound and humorous from a week or so back that escapes my memory at present. Like Vitolo, we should be having the apprentices following along behind you writing this good stuff down...... True gems of wisdom in finest FC fashion.

Fun bit (to me at least) is that very "howling mob" is made up of our Brothers and Sisters. A true family squabble as often as not....but family none the less.

Pogo was right, you know.......'we've met the enemy, and they is us'.

OF

 

[iamn3ko]

So here's my mock up of OFs design.

Something a little more cleaned up, I apologize for the drawing, I don't know computer rendering stuff so this is what you get.

But picture OFs design, the ring around the switch, and a lever that can hang freely on a ring on the side

I'd be down for this... And doesn't seem too hard to make at all, I'll start making one when I get my Cera lol.

 

[Quetzalcoatl]

I was thinking along the lines of a flat "long" hinge, similar to a door hinge, but sideways. That way the thickness of the switch can be uniform and it has more leverage/less stress points. The washer is on point though

rough back envelope sketch:

 

[iamn3ko]

Ooh yeah, that's good, something small. I'm thinking for mine, I might actually extend the lever up towards the mp maybe so it can fit in the sunk in grip on the ceramic body. And maybe even make a nice wide ring with something attached that keeps the lever in place freely, and all I have to do is press it with the grip of my hand. Giving it a good solid hold onto the Cera.


Basically making my own side momentary switch, it'll make things a lot easier for me to hold and vape and look normal than using 2 hands.

And not voiding any warrantys, or putting TET in a legal situation, since its my own thing...


Hopefully.



Also I hope I'm not filling this thread with more unneeded stuff if this isn't appropriate. Feel free to move it if needed. I thought it would be interesting to show my idea on a 'different' homemade momentary switch.

 

[Quetzalcoatl]

Two small magnets!

 

[HazyDaze]

No matter what the issue, or perceived shortcomings users may experience, there is always a solution. Just look at what's happened with the Arizer Solo, where some felt the draw was way too restrictive. Some studious individuals noted this concern and now there is a huge aftermarket for both Ed's hardwood stems and PV's PVHES that solve the problem. So, in the near future it wouldn't surprise me if we see similar developments with the Cera.

 

[Belgianvapor]

I was thinking of making something like the old milk bottle caps, so you can "click" it in place if you want
a la :
(without the rust !)

 

[Tom Funk]

I was thinking of making something like the old milk bottle caps, so you can "click" it in place if you want
a la :
(without the rust !)

I like this idea the best so far. Even better would be to replace the current switch with this rather than using it to hold the switch on. With this idea you could have a non-conductive insert that could be placed in between the lid and the battery for safe storage, eliminating the need for the safety pin and freeing this spot again for the use of the lamp style (not actually momentary) side switch.

TF

 

[buchee]

Thanks for that precision buchee.
Mmm i'am so hesitant at this point.....i'm ready to spent 250/300$ for my next portable vape, and the Cera is on my top list but ......no real temp control ........for a vape WHO CAN combust, (even if it seems difficult to do it, it may happen)...... i dont know what to think......
It seems that the Cera LL is heating A LOT. Vids shows us really black AVB, the MouthPiece seems to become really hot (thermal covers, tube using, .....)
Maybe this can be avoid with the ON/OFF switch, but if have to switch 20 times for one bowl ......pffffff !

Hi GoGlass
I Just wanted to add a few things. I feel there is plenty of temperature control in that the user controls it through the strength of your inhales. I wanted to show as much vapour in my videos because thats what the people wanted to see. That's not my normal way of doing things though. Normally my ABV is on the light side of brown after a completed session. As for the combustion part. That was due to having no airflow because of grinding my LL to a powder and packing the bowl too tight. So I would take 30 or 40 second inhales and not get any airflow. Just alot of built up heat pressure? Anyway on my 3rd attempt at doing that thats when I saw smoke billow out the airholes.
I guess what I'm trying to say is that the user really does control the temperatue. Slower and longer inhales for thicker vapour, hence getting darker ABV....or slower inhales for a shorter amount of time. I think once you get it you will understand fully.
Great weekend out introducing Cera to some friends. We got alot of use with the EO cart. Holy schnikity schnikey.

 

[7upstar]

I would be careful modding the latching switch if you don't want to void your warranty. I doubt TV will cover any burned out cores due to a home made latching switch since they have already stated it causes the device to overheat.

 

[JoeKickass]

I would be careful modding the latching switch if you don't want to void your warranty. I doubt TV will cover any burned out cores due to a home made latching switch since they have already stated it causes the device to overheat.

I'm pretty sure they meant overheat for human hands to hold it, not burn out the core, that's something they always say should last years/lifetime

 

[Kushtoker630]

I think the Cera LL without a latching switch is a non starter. I own one and am very disappointed that one will not be supplied. I can understand if they do not want to supply one prospectively due to liabilities real or imagined, but it is up to TET to make that decision. Whatever they decide we will have to live with. I don't think they will be taking back used units for refunds. It might lose them some orders, but it's their bed to make and sleep in. I wish them luck.

I wouldn't have ordered a Pax, if I had to hold down a button to get vapor to come out.

if you ever want to get rid of your cera pm i will be more than delighted to take it off your hands when ever. dont see how some one would hate something for something so minute

 

[kingofnull]

if you ever want to get rid of your cera pm i will be more than delighted to take it off your hands when ever. dont see how some one would hate something for something so minute

I don't know, I could see the Cera LL being a bit of a pain to keep engaged with the momentary switch at the bottom. The T1 and Evo already were a little annoying for me having to keep the switch engaged all the time.

For EO, I think the current switch is the best implementation. Still not sure about LL.

 

[havealight101]

TET does not need to address you or anyone else. They've made a decision, stated their reason, and if you get anything else it's out of their open and generous nature, which I hasten to add has bitten them in the ass several times because it caters to the inflated sense of entitlement of the howling mob in this and the other two threads.

I agree, they don't owe us(the "howling mob") anything... Yup bit them in the ass huh, I concur. As for the howling mob,they seem to have been quieted or moved on, lately(about the latest switch debacle) I've seen more constructive showings of dismay mainly in well thought out manners, even by guys who actually have a LL in hand. Yes, there are always the demanding few with a heightened sense of entitlement, but they seem to be few and farther between lately.
You sure got a knack for making folks that want to voice their entitled opinions feel bad for doing so. Cheers...

Moving on, this is the last I'll speak of the ill fated latching switch.
I thought the grenade pin was a safety to keep people from loosing control. When that got switched to a pin instead of a switch, I thought to my self, "hey, at least we(LL users) have a latching switch on the bottom ehh", a guy can live with that. Now it seems the original product we saw Noah show off so well, has been compromised down to something that NEEds to be modded out of the box(hence the last two pages has turned into "how to mod the Cera switch" as opposed to the "cera thread"). I think and hope TET can come up with something to appease the lawyers, but I'm not holding my breath.
I would also like to reiterate a point I said yesterday, TET got way ahead of themselves with this launch!

There, my second(and last) post with my heightened sense of entitlement in this thread, I will stay on topic for now on. Topic: how to mod the Cera to work how we want.